Thursday, December 9, 2010

Editor's Note: Okay, i know, the HKDL Christmas article was supposed to be my last one before next January...but, frankly, could i really leave you without these first pictures and trailer of POTC On Stranger Tides?

So, here it is, the awaited first official trailer of Pirates of Caribbean On Stranger Tides trailer! Enjoy!

One more article for the road...with these first pictures of Pirates of Caribbean "On Stranger Tides" just released by Disney. It's interesting to note that in the third and fifth pictures the action seems to be in a city, Which seems to indicate that all the movie won't necessarily be at sea or on an island...the first trailer should be released later this month and although i am in my Christmas break, i'll try to post it if i have an internet connection where i will be.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Editor's Note: This HKDL article will be the last one of the year on Disney and more as i will take a Christmas break until mid January. I'm sure you will miss my regular updates but don't worry i have plenty of good one for you when i'll be back. In the meantime don't forget to explore Disney and more archives where lot of treasures awaits you. I wish to all of you a Merry Christmas and the best possible year for 2011!

A Storybook Fantasy Comes to Life as Duffy the Disney Bear Marks His Debut at the Park(Hong Kong, November 18 2010) When it comes to enjoying the magic of the holiday season with family and friends, there’s no place like Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. The holidays will shine brightly throughout the resort from November 19, 2010 through January 2, 2011, as it transforms into “A Sparkling Christmas – A Storybook Fantasy”. Guests will be immersed in the storybook setting as they walk through snowy Main Street, U.S.A. Christmas Town and catch a glimpse ofthe larger-than-life Gingerbread Village.

The Procession of Toys will bring all the lovely toys to life as Duffy the Disney Bear makes his appearance on stage. Guests can also pick their favorite Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers from a range of Duffy merchandise and more than 100 exclusive Christmas items. A series of shopping and hotel offers will also be launched this season for more surprises and holiday fun!

“In the past few years, the Resort has brought to Guests countless magical holiday experiences. According to a survey conducted earlier this year, Guests love the unique snowy Christmas experience and recommend Disney’s Sparkling Christmas as the best seasonal event to overseas tourists,” said Frederick Chan, Director of Marketing, Hong Kong Business, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

“To celebrate our fifth anniversary, we have specially brought Duffy the Disney Bear to Hong Kong to meet our Guests this Christmas. Duffy is extremely popular in Tokyo Disneyland and their merchandise items often create frenzy among fans. Guests regard their Duffy toy as the best companion to visit the Park. They love to snap pictures of him in different backgrounds! I’m sure he is going to be a big Christmas hit here in Hong Kong,” he added.

Holiday highlights at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort include:

Duffy’s Debut in Hong Kong! Hand-made by Minnie to be Mickey’s companion, the beloved Duffy the Disney Bear will be greeting Guests at Main Street, U.S.A. Christmas Town. Do not miss the exclusive Duffy merchandise, including Duffy key chains, Duffy Plush and Duffy’s festive Christmas costume.

Snowed in at Main Street, U.S.A. Christmas Town

From the glistening 60-foot tall Christmas tree in Town Square to the street complete with falling snow, candy canes and gingerbread, a storybook fantasy comes to life along Main Street, U.S.A. Christmas Town. Friendly elves bring Christmas cheer to Guests on the street, while the Carolers sing lovely Christmas songs you are sure to know. The whole town is filled with whimsical Christmas ambience!

Be immersed in a Storybook Fantasy at Gingerbread Village

Discover the Gingerbread Village at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., where the houses are decorated in jolly Disney style with sweets and candy canes everywhere. As Guests meander from house to house, they can look into the windows for a peek at colorful settings of Disney friends preparing food and gifts for the Christmas season. This is where the Christmas spirit of A Storybook Fantasy comes to life.

Christmas Dreams brought to life at the Procession of Toys

When the Christmas lights on Main Street U.S.A. dim, the magic of A Sparkling Christmas brings the toys to life and creates a dream-like Procession of Toys. To the tune of delightful Christmas carols, the dream-like toy procession will crescendo with an illumination and the charm of snow falling in Christmas Town. Don’t miss out on this magical moment every evening when Minnie surprises Mickey with Duffy the Disney Bear under the sparkling Christmas tree!

Shopping Discount on Exclusive Christmas Gifts

Duffy merchandise and over 100 new holiday-themed goodies make the perfect Christmas gift for family and friends. Limited to an edition size of only 300, Christmas 2010 Jumbo Pins will be available for HK$220 per set from December 3 while supplies last. From November 19 to December 17, Guests will receive a shopping coupon upon entering the Park to enjoy a discount of HK$100[1]Hong Kong International Airport. when they spend HK$800 or more by presenting the coupon at designated merchandise stores throughout the Park, Disney’s Hollywood Hotel, Disneyland Hotel and

Meet with Disney Friends in new Christmas Costumes

Inspired by Duffy, Disney friends are also in the Christmas mood with their most imaginative costumes. Mickey and Minnie Mouse dressed as Santa and Mrs. Claus; Pluto dressed as a reindeer; Donald and Daisy wearing candy cane inspired costumes; Chip and Dale as gingerbread men and Goofy as a toy soldier. Guests should have their camera ready for these memorable meets & greets.

Find a whole new world of festive fun at it’s a small world Christmas

The storybook fantasy continues as Guests set sail around the world on it’s a small world Christmas. Look for Disney characters along the ride and see them in preparation for the holiday celebrations.

The spectacular “Let It Snow” Christmas Parade is back by popular demand to bring yuletide cheer like no other. Join in the merriment as hundreds of dancers perform a glittering procession. Get ready for unexpected weather as we have word that snow is forecasted throughout the show!

Festive Buffet for a Warmer Christmas

During the Christmas period, festive food will be waiting for Guests in the Park and hotels. Besides the Christmas feasts, snacks and specialty drinks, from December 15 to January 2, Guests may also treat themselves to a Christmas Dinner Buffet at the Royal Banquet Hall for HK$198[3]enjoying the “Disney in the Stars Fireworks.” per head before

Magical Holiday Experience at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel is bringing the spirit of Christmas into all of its Resort Suites for the first time to elate Guests with even more holiday delights. Guests who stay at any Kingdom Suite will be immersed in the yuletide spirit with complimentary holiday room decorations and a special holiday hamper!

Well, it looks like a real "candy" Christmas at HKDL, isn"t it? If you're in Honk Kong, tell us more in the comments!

I repost today this short article about the amazing new Nautilus replica which is now expected to be released in the first quarter of 2011!

Visitors of the 2009 Comicon and D23 Expo were amazed by the new and gorgeous 4 foot long Nautilus replica produced by eFX, and i've previously show you some pictures of it and now eFX is taking pre-orders for this highly awaited Nautilus replica to be released early 2011!

The pictures that i post today are official pictures from eFX, but two things will change - for the better - in the final version: first, the battery box with a cable that you can see under the Nautilus - needed for the lights inside the submarine - will be located inside the Nautilus, and, two, there will be a new design for the stand inspired by an architecture element of Nemo's Grand Salon.

Price of this stunning replica is $1799 and there is a possibility to pay the amount in four times, you'll get all details on the eFX web site.

I am a huge fan of Harper Goff's Nautilus, so of course i welcome this new limited edition replica, the best i've seen so far. And now, here is the press release with all details on this "ultimate" Nautilus. You can see additional pictures shoot at D23 Expo by Andy Castro HERE. And also on the eFX web site three pages of great pictures of the making-of of this replica by Scott Brodeen.

BURBANK, Calif. (December 7, 2009) – Disney fans will soon be able to add an element of epic adventure to their collections: On Thursday, December 10, eFX Inc. begins accepting orders at www.efxcollectibles.com for its eye-popping, four-foot replica of Capt. Nemo’s Nautilus, inspired by Disney’s 1954 live-action version of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

Shipping is anticipated to take place in spring 2010 for the Nautilus, the first of three incredible replicas offered in eFX’s new Disney line. The Nautilus is priced at $1,799, and payments can be made in four installments. Full ordering and shipping details are available at www.efxcollectibles.com.

This four-foot replica of the Nautilus offers features not incorporated in any previous model of the iconic submarine. Produced at approximately 1/45th scale, the replica features finely detailed interior views of the wheelhouse and Capt. Nemo’s salon, as well as LED lights to illuminate those rooms as well as the circular salon observation window.

In addition to a removable skiff, the Nautilus incorporates a freely rotating propeller and pivoting rudder, and includes a custom display stand. Each Nautilus will have a numbered plaque and certificate of authenticity, and production will be strictly limited to 500 pieces worldwide.

Tomorrow, an official presentation of the awaited Village Nature project will happen for the stockholders club members. Concept-arts of the project and more will be revealed but Disney and more have a special preview for you! The whole project looks cool, including the water park, but don't expect a water park like Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach, though, which is not dramatic as winter or cold temperature in Paris can last up to six months. Right now it is snowing in Paris, and you don't really want to go in a water park with these temperatures unless, of course, if it's an indoor water park.

Here is the official press release, with the concept-arts of the project Euro Disney and Pierre & Vacances unveil Villages Nature, a new, sustainable resort concept

Euro Disney S.C.A. Group (“Euro Disney”) and Groupe Pierre & Vacances Center Parcs(“Pierre & Vacances”) are unveiling their new concept of a vacation destination based on the search for harmony between man and nature. The destination would be, in its design and in its operations, a unique model of sustainable development for tourism at this scale: Les Villages Nature de Val d’Europe (« Villages Nature »).

A message of harmony between Man and Nature

Harmony between Man and Nature is central to the Villages Nature concept. As mixed‐use resort, Villages Nature will work with visionary landscape architects to develop new lodging and leisure experiences that will provide multiple opportunities for visitors to interact with nature. These activities would be centered on gardening, boating, hiking, horseback riding, visiting an organic farm, walking along discovery paths, and enjoying seasonal festivals and culinary events. The entire resort will be developed around its iconic 3,500m² geothermal lagoon, and the adjacent water park which will be the largest in Europe.

The Villages Nature site is located 6 Km south of Disneyland Paris, north of the Brie Forest (in French: Brie Boisée), in Seine-et‐Marne. This project, which could span up to 500 hectares and be developed over a 20‐year timeframe, will be launched depending on market conditions. The first phase would be comprised of 175 hectares and could open in 2015.

Complementary expertise on a shared project

Euro Disney and Pierre & Vacances have studied together the Villages Nature project. The two Groups have common values and complementary expertise, which serve as the foundation of their partnership.Villages Nature is a resort concept designed to appeal to European consumers, offering them a unique experience based on connecting with nature. As a short and medium‐break vacation destination, Villages Nature will provide a relaxing and immersive experience in the heart of nature – with 90% of the resort retained as green space. The destination will offer a number of recreational and learning activities that will inspire future generations to value conservation. For this project, the partners have created a 50/50 joint‐venture, with Companies’ respective CEOs, Gérard Brémond andPhilippe Gas, acting as co‐Chairmen of the managing entity, and Dominique Cocquet as General Manager.

A commitment to sustainable development

To develop a Sustainable Action Plan and position Villages Nature as a reference of eco‐tourism in Europe, the partners have been inspired by the "One Planet Living" methodology (www.oneplanetliving.org) developed by BioRegional and WWF International.

The Sustainable Action Plan relies on the following 10 key, measurable targets aimed at reducing as much as possible the destination’s ecological footprint, ensuring social responsibility, and developing synergies with the local communities:‐ Zero carbon‐ Zero waste‐ Sustainable transportation‐ Local and sustainable materials‐ Local and sustainable food products‐ Sustainable water‐ Natural habitats and wild life‐ Culture and heritage‐ Local partnerships and fair trade‐ Quality of life and well‐being

The two Companies partner with experts to meet the Sustainable Action Plan and implement relevant solutions. For example, the destination’s overall heating needs will be provided by a deep geothermal source. Emanating from 1,800 meters under the project site, the 78°C water will be used for heating before it is recycled back into the water table, producing no greenhouse gas emissions.

An opportunity for institutional and individual investors

The first phase of Villages Nature would include the construction of 1,730 apartments or cottages, and measuring between 32 m² and 85 m², located within three villages: two villages around the lake and one village in the forest. Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities are also planned, for a total 70,000 m² area.

Based on the 40‐year proven real estate development model of Pierre & Vacances, the apartments and cottages would be sold to individual investors as tourism residences (in French : Résidences de Tourisme) while facilities would be sold to institutional investors. The housing units and facilities will be leased and managed by the Villages Nature operating company.

An economic project committed to its region

During various study phases of the project there has been an active dialogue with local stakeholders. Public officials from the local area presented their concerns, and many of their expectations have been considered in the project scope. Both the Seine‐et‐Marne General Council and the Ile‐de‐France Regional Council have voted their support to the project. In the months and years ahead, additional information will be shared and active dialogue will continue with surrounding communities to ensure the project remains well integrated into the community.Villages Nature will aim to be a strong economic and social contributor to the region. When completed and fully operational, the first phase is expected to generate approximately €7 million in local taxes per year, and create 4,500 jobs, 1,600 of which will be direct. We will proactively work with local, public employment agencies to promote job opportunities for residents, and will reach out to local stakeholders for sourcing and synergies.

NEW! Disney and more Surveys !

I introduce today on the right bar of this D&M website a series of surveys to know what YOU wish as new additions / rides / lands for Disneyland Paris park and the Walt Disney Studios! Depending of the survey, as indicated, you're asked to choose either one, two, or three choices. And results can be seen instantly.

The folks of Disney are following Disney and more and your opinion may have more influence than you think for future attractions, so make sure to do the survey! The survey don't request any name, email address, etc, so it's totally anonymous. Make sure to think wisely for your answers, as you can choose only one time!

These surveys may not appear on a mobile device so you need to answer them from your computer.

Tower of Terror SURVEY!

I add today Sept 22 a new survey below, and the question for this one is simple : do you wish that the WDS Tower of Terror will be transformed in a Guardians of Galaxy ride, similar to the one at DCA? Go ahead, place your answer!

Choose ONE Favorite Land for DLP WDS

Choose the THREE favorite LANDS you wish for DLP WDS

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Hello everyone, thanks to Max, D&M contributor and DLPWelcome webmaster i have for you today a looong article with which you'll hav...

Disneyland Paris Book

The acclaimed Disneyland Paris, From Sketch to Reality 320 pages book is no longer available from the publishing company Neverland Editions which has stop its activities. Anyone looking for an English or French edition copy must send me an email at nme4@wanadoo.fr and i'll tell you where or how to find one. Le livre Disneyland Paris, De l’Esquisse à la Cration n'est plus disponible auprès de la société d'édition Neverland Editions qui a arrêté son activité. Toute personne à la recherche d’un exemplaire du livre en français ou en anglais doit m'envoyer un email à nme4@wanadoo.fr

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NEW! Theme Park Design Book!

David Younger's Theme Park Design & The Art of Themed Entertainment Is the Awesome Book About "Imagineering" that theme parks fans have always dreamed about! Don't miss this fantastic 570 pages book that you can order in one click with the Paypal button below! The Paypal button menu also include an option to buy both the Theme Park Design book AND the Disneyland Paris book if you wish! To learn more about the book, click on the above cover picture.

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